“I want it to be a place where people can enjoy films that they otherwise wouldn't be able to see,” said Manuel Saldivar, director of programming. “A lot of these films are out on DVD, but there's nothing like seeing it on the big screen.”

Programming will include Q&As with the filmmakers, an Audience Award, an opening night gala, and a look at the career of Mexican director Beto Gomez, whose Puños Rosas and El Sueño del Caiman will be screened. Among the actors expected to attend the festival are Efren Ramirez (Napoleon Dynamite), Michael Peña (Crash) and Rick Gonzalez (Coach Carter).

Festival sponsors include Ford, Tower Records, Wells Fargo and Budweiser. Home Media Retailing is a Silver Level Sponsor and media partner for the event.